1996 BMW 525 vs. 2009 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2009 Subaru Outback is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Subaru Outback (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1996 BMW 525. (141 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 525 weights approximately 128 kg more than 2009 Subaru Outback.
Because 2009 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 525. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Subaru Outback will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1996 BMW 525 (279 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Subaru Outback. (231 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Subaru Outback.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 525 | 2009 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | BMW | Subaru |
| Model | 525 | Outback |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 2455 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 279 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 99.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 198 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1563 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 64 L |
